Confirmation Book Recommendations

Book Review by Ann Jonas, Tradebook Buyer - CSB/SJU Bookstoresthis review was published in the St. Cloud Visitor

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living Catholic Faithby Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and LeAnn Thieman; published by Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing, December 2008The first Chicken Soup for the Soul book was published in 1993; more than 150 Chicken Soup titles have been published during that time. This recently published book contains 101 stories written by Catholics of all ages and religious experiences. Some of the stories are about growing up in the faith; others are stories of miraculous experiences. The book is divided into 10 chapters, some of which are “Angels Among Us”, “The Power of Prayer”, “Lessons” and “Faith.” Uplifting and heart-warming, this inspirational book makes a great gift for Confirmation and other occasions as well.

All Saints: Daily Reflections on Saints, Prophets, and Witnesses For Our Timeby Robert Ellsberg; published by Crossroad Publishing, September 1997This book was published over 10 years ago, but still has appeal to a wide range of readers. Ellsberg has compiled insightful portraits--one for each day of the year--of men and women who have led inspiring lives and are great role models. Well-known saints and spiritual giants such as St. Teresa of Avila, St. Benedict, Thomas Merton, and Henri Nouwen are featured, along with a diverse list of other good people including social activists, mystics, martyrs, artists and writers (Dorothy Day, Gandhi, Leo Tolstoy and Sojourner Truth to name a few.) Ellsberg’s concise profiles offer vivid examples of how to be a good person.

Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectationsby Alex & Brett Harris; published by Multnomah Books, April 2008Written by teenage twins, this book offers a challenge to teens to raise their expectations and goals. The premise of the book is that our society expects very little from our teenagers, and as a result, they accomplish less than they would if their goals were loftier. The Harris twins use humorous anecdotes, biblical insights and practical examples to encourage and motivate young people to make a difference. They map out five powerful ways to make personal and social change happen. Do Hard Things has a great message for teens and adults, including parents, church leaders and educators. The message can inspire all generations to “do hard things.”